Course Search > Health and Environment > 36.580-031

Course No: 36.580-031; ISIS Class Nbr: 3128

Course Description

This course begins with a review of basic molecular genetics, followed by a discussion of the human genome project, including the application of its technology to the management of genetic diseases. Laboratory techniques used to analyze pre- and postnatal tissue samples is described, including RFLP-Southern blot technology, various forms of PCR, VNTR assessment, and gene expression analysis by microchip arrays. Cloning and stem cell analysis follows, including the ethical, legal, and social issues surrounding these areas. Cancer genetics and cytogenesis is presented, with emphasis on molecular changes that lead to the onset of cancer. Genetic treatments for cancer are reviewed. Gene therapy is detailed, including the historical perspective, gene therapy vectors and their mode of action, and the newest methods for treating genetic disorders at the DNA level. Structural and functional genomics follows, centering around the creation of pharmaceuticals solely based on the genetic basis of diseases. This is followed by a detailed section on epigenetics and its application to diagnosis and prediction of disease phenotypes. GWAS (Genome Wide Association Studies) is detailed as it applies to diagnosis in both individuals and entire populations. The course ends with a discussion of the human proteome project, and the human transcriptome project, including goals and objectives, current progress, and the storage of data in complex bioinformatic databases.

Prerequisites, Notes & Instructor

• Prerequisites:
• Special Notes:
• Section Notes:
• Credits: 3;
• Instructor: Theodore Namm
• UMass Lowell Bookstore

When Offered & Tuition

• Online Course
• Summer 2013: May 20 to Aug 10
• Chat Hours: Mon 7-8pm*
• Tuition: $1605
• Note: There is a $30 per semester, nonrefundable registration fee for credit courses.

*Chat Hours in our online courses provide an opportunity for the instructor and students to communicate in "real time". It is an informative and interactive session where course related questions, answers, and discussions take place. While student attendance during chat hours is not required, it is highly recommended. Weekly chat sessions are archived for students who are not able to participate in the live chat sessions at the schedules times.